nitric oxide production involved in inflammatory response

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The synthesis or release of nitric oxide following a stimulus as part of an inflammatory response, resulting in an increase in its intracellular or extracellular levels. [GOC:add, ISBN:0781735149]

Nitric oxide (NO) is a highly reactive molecule that plays a crucial role in the inflammatory response. Its production is primarily mediated by the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS). There are three isoforms of NOS: endothelial NOS (eNOS), neuronal NOS (nNOS), and inducible NOS (iNOS).

In the context of inflammation, iNOS is the key player. It is induced by inflammatory stimuli such as cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β) and bacterial products (e.g., lipopolysaccharide). When iNOS is activated, it catalyzes the conversion of L-arginine to L-citrulline and NO, using NADPH and oxygen as cofactors.

The production of NO during inflammation serves multiple purposes:

* **Vasodilation:** NO relaxes vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and increased blood flow to the inflamed site. This allows for the delivery of immune cells and other essential components of the inflammatory response.
* **Antimicrobial activity:** NO possesses direct antimicrobial activity against various bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It can damage microbial DNA and inhibit their growth and proliferation.
* **Regulation of immune cell function:** NO influences the activity of various immune cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, and T cells. It can modulate their migration, activation, and cytokine production.
* **Modulation of inflammation:** NO can act as a pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory mediator depending on the context. It can promote inflammation by enhancing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, but it can also suppress inflammation by inhibiting the activation of inflammatory pathways.

The production of NO is tightly regulated to ensure its appropriate levels and prevent excessive inflammation. Various feedback mechanisms are in place to control iNOS expression and NO production. Disruption of this delicate balance can lead to pathological conditions, such as chronic inflammation and septic shock.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (5)